Reports that jobs could be a risk at Pembroke’s Chevron refinery are “an exaggeration” says local MP Nick Ainger.

Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire MP Nick Ainger, who met with management this morning, was quick to allay fears that the Pembroke plant is at risk.

Mr Ainger said: “The Times report is an exaggeration. It is a global announcement, it doesn’t mention any refineries at all.

“The important thing is it is about cost cutting on an organisational basis to try and reduce over heads because of the difficulties in the down stream oil markets. It is not about Pembroke being under threat more than other refineries.

“The announcement that was made does not threaten Pembroke. The aim is to reduce the company overheads in its organisation while they are going through this period of low profitability so they can keep refineries like Pembroke open.

“The aim is to reduce costs and increase margins so that Pembroke and other refineries are viable. Chevron is key to the local economy in terms of employment it provides and also the services it buys locally.”

Preseli Pembrokeshire MP Stephen Crabb said he was deeply concerned about the possibility of major job losses but following talks with Chevron he is optimistic that the Pembroke refinery will survive.

He added: “As the largest private sector employer in Pembrokeshire, the refinery is of critical importance to the local economy. Its loss would be a catastrophic blow to the area."

"I held discussions there a week ago with the general manager regarding the future of UK oil refining and the current investment going into the Pembroke refinery. This followed a meeting I had with the Energy Minister in London just before Christmas to discuss threats to the sector.

"There is no question that oil refining in the UK is currently facing a very challenging commercial environment but I came away from the meeting with Chevron optimistic that the scale and efficiency achieved at its Pembroke site means that it is well-placed to weather the current storm affecting the industry."

The substantial contribution made by Pembroke to the UK refinery capacity was also cited by the Deputy First Minister, Ieuan Wyn Jones as a reason for optimism that the pant will be safe.

He said: “I understand that the news that Chevron plans a global review may create uncertainty and worry, not only for the workforce at Pembrokeshire, but also their families and the wider community.

“However, no decision about any of Chevron’s plants has been taken. The Pembrokeshire plant makes a major contribution to UK refining capacity which is still required even in these difficult times.

“I intend visiting the plant shortly and will be in contact with Chevron in California offering any help we can to ensure the plant has a strong future.

“The site has recently been upgraded to improve the efficiency of the refinery operation. I believe that the refinery has a good future and it is well placed to continue operations. I will be making this case strongly to Chevron but it is important to emphasise that to date the company have not suggested that the refinery itself is in any danger of closing."